Objectives: Dose-dependant gastrointestinal and cardiovascular side-effects limit the use of NSAIDs [non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and indomethacin] in the management of RA [rheumatoid arthritis – a chronic autoimmune inflammatory joint disease in which inflammation plays a key role]. The n-3 [omega-3] essential fatty acids (EFAs) have previously demonstrated some anti-inflammatory and NSAID-sparing properties. The objective of this study was to determine whether cod liver oil supplementation helps reduce daily NSAID requirement of patients with RA.

At 12 weeks, patients were instructed to gradually reduce, and if possible, stop their NSAID intake. Relative reduction of daily NSAID requirement by >30% after 9 months was the primary outcome measure.

Results: Fifty-eight patients (60%) completed the study. Out of 49 patients, 19 (39%) in the cod liver oil group; and out of 48 patients, 5 (10%) in the placebo group were able to reduce their daily NSAID requirement by >30% (P = 0.002, chi-squared test).

No differences between the groups were observed in the clinical parameters of RA disease activity or in the side-effects observed.

Conclusions: This study suggests that cod liver oil supplements containing omega-3 fatty acids can be used as NSAID-sparing agents in RA patients.